Back-to-School Cookies!

These hearty treats are great for an after-school snack or to share with friends. With a glass of cold milk, they’re an irresistible snack. —Frances Pierce, Waddington, New York Ingredients


1 cup butter-flavored shortening
1 cup creamy peanut butter
2 cups packed brown sugar
4 egg whites
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
2 cups crisp rice cereal
1-1/2 cups chopped nuts
1 cup flaked coconut
1 cup quick-cooking oats

Directions

In a large bowl, cream the shortening, peanut butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg whites and vanilla. Combine the flour, baking soda and baking powder; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in the cereal, nuts, coconut and oats.

Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls 2 in. apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Flatten with a fork, forming a crisscross pattern. Bake at 375° for 7-8 minutes. Remove to wire racks. Yield: 6-1/2 dozen.

Editor's Note: Reduced-fat or generic brands of peanut butter are not recommended for this recipe.


Nutrition Facts: 1 cookie equals 103 calories, 6 g fat (1 g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 49 mg sodium, 11 g carbohydrate, 1 g fiber, 2 g protein.

Thanks to Back-to-School Cookies published in Taste of Home August/September 2007, p39  for sharing!